There are a few brands in this world that are true icons and classics – that stay true to their roots. LACOSTE was born on a tennis court in 1933, as a French tennis champion Rene Lacoste replaced the what men wore for the sport. He was the first to introduce the comfort and stylish pique fabric shirt known today as the “polo shirt.”
The iconic Crocodile is recognized around the world and has become a go-to brand for those in pursuit of timeless elegance and comfort. But what’s the story behind the Crocodile? According to the company, the true story was based on a simple bet. Captain of the French Davis Cup Team Allan H. Muhr promised Rene Lacoste an alligator suitcase if he was to win an important match for the team. The legend was born, with a little help from the Boston Evening Transcript that reported this episode in an article referring to the French player as “the Crocodile”. The American public grew fond of the nickname, for it highlighted the tenacity Rene Lacoste displayed on tennis courts, never giving up on his prey. Drawn by his friend Robert George, a crocodile was embroidered on his tennis blazer and, from one court to another, the legend began to spread.
This year, LACOSTE celebrates 80 years in the fashion business and has kicked it off with a variety of events around the world. Last night in Toronto, media and VIPs were invited to an exclusive reception at the gorgeous Yorkdale boutique as they unveiled the 80th anniversary line created by British designer Peter Saville. The company commissioned Saville to create the 80th anniversary logo that reflects the heritage of the company while being forward thinking. Classic yet cutting edge!
Peter Saville has also collaborated with other renowned fashion brands including Yohji Yamamoto, Jil Sander, Christian Dior, Givenchy, Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney. IN 2000, he co-founded the first digital home of fashion ShowSTUDIO alongside photographer Nick Knight. He is also the consultant Creative Director to his home city of Manchester, where he applies his creative intelligence to the cultural and economical regeneration of the region. He’s been recognized the world over including a retrospective show at the Design Museum in London (2003) then touring to Tokyo. He’s also exhibit his contemporary art at the Migros Museum in Zurich (2005). You may also be familiar with his iconic series of record sleeves for music groups Joy Division and New Order.
I’ve been a big fan of LACOSTE for years for their classic lines and very flattering fits. Their pique polo dresses are a mainstay particularly in my summer and travel wardrobes. The fabrics and colours have held very well over many washings. Seriously! They always look like new! But while I love the classics, it’s always refreshing to see them also collaborate with some of the best designers in the world for capsule collections. My favourite recent collection with designer Catherine Malandrino had drooling and wanting more. I followed Malandrino’s lines but when she fused her feminine elements incorporating a bit of urban chic to the classic lines… It was beautiful!
Happy 80th Anniversary LACOSTE!
Here are a few photos from the celebration last night at Yorkdale Shopping Centre….
Cool history – I never knew! Good post, Sonya!!